7.6-magnitude earthquake triggers regional warnings
A strong 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck off northern Japan on Monday, prompting an immediate tsunami alert for coastal communities along Hokkaido and Aomori, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. The quake’s epicenter was located about 30 miles beneath the sea surface. Authorities initially recorded the quake as magnitude 7.2 before revising the estimate upward.
The agency warned of potential tsunami waves up to 10 feet. Offshore observations already detected small waves, including a roughly one-foot surge off Erimo Town and additional activity near Iwate and Urakawa. Emergency systems were activated as officials urged residents in at-risk areas to move to higher ground.
No threat to North America, officials say
Despite the regional alerts, the U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center said there was no immediate risk to Alaska, British Columbia, Washington, Oregon or California. Monitoring continues, but no advisories or warnings were issued for North America.
In Japan, nuclear facilities in the region began precautionary safety checks, public broadcaster NHK reported. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s office activated a government response room to coordinate assessments and ensure preparedness as aftershocks remain possible.
Memories of Fukushima heighten concern
The quake rekindled memories of the devastating March 11, 2011, disaster when a 9.0-magnitude earthquake and massive tsunami crippled the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant. That event caused three reactor meltdowns, released radioactive material, and displaced thousands of residents.
While Japan has since reinforced disaster-response systems and nuclear safeguards, cleanup of Fukushima continues more than a decade later. The government began releasing treated water from the damaged plant in 2023, though highly radioactive fuel debris remains stored on site. Officials have set a 2051 target for completing the cleanup, though some experts believe it could take much longer.
Monitoring continues as coastal communities stay alert
As of late Monday, Japan’s meteorological agency and local authorities were monitoring wave activity and structural impacts across northern prefectures. Though initial tsunami waves were relatively small, officials urged residents to remain vigilant until all advisories are lifted.